Pelvic Venous Insufficiency
What is pelvic venous insufficiency?
Download our illustrated guide to the diagnosis and treatment of pelvic congestion syndrome.
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Symptoms of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
It is estimated that up to 30% of patients with chronic pelvic pain of an unknown cause actually suffer from symptomatic pelvic venous congestion. So how do you know if you have pelvic congestion syndrome? Classic symptoms and signs of pelvic congestion include:
- Dull achiness and heaviness in the pelvis, often made worse by prolonged standing
- Bloating sensation
- Pain in the lower back
- Visible varicose veins on the buttocks, vulva, and upper thighs
- Painful menstrual cycles with referred pain in the legs
- Increased frequency of urination
- Pain during and after intercourse
Common Recognized Associations
Although the causes of pelvic venous congestion are complex and poorly understood, a few commonly recognized associations include:
- Family history of venous disease
- Multiple pregnancies
- Estrogen
- Pelvic or renal vein compression
How is Pelvic Venous Congestion Diagnosed?
Unfortunately, pelvic congestion syndrome often goes unrecognized and untreated. Symptoms, physical exam and ultrasound findings have a high combined predictive value in diagnosing pelvic venous disorders. The ability of duplex ultrasound (DUS) to image real time makes it an important tool in the evaluation of possible pelvic venous congestion. Because there are many other potential causes of chronic pelvic pain, medical professionals may conduct multiple exams and tests including:
- Pelvic exam
- Pelvic duplex ultrasound
- CT or MRI scan
- Laparoscopy
Pelvic ultrasound or other imaging studies such as CT are generally performed prior to treatment for pelvic venous congestion in order to exclude other possible pelvic disorders and to assess for anatomical variations which could affect treatment. It is important to note that a normal laparoscopy does not exclude the diagnosis of pelvic venous congestion.
The diagnosis of pelvic venous congestion is confirmed through an outpatient procedure called pelvic venography and treatment is typically carried out at the same time with a procedure called embolization. Embolization is a proven, safe and minimally invasive treatment option through which abnormal veins are closed using a combination of tiny coils and a sclerosing agent. Occasionally, pelvic venous congestion is caused by an obstructed iliac vein in the pelvis. In these cases, a stent may be required to open the abnormal iliac vein in order to restore normal flow out of the pelvis.
Treatment of Pelvic Congestion Syndrome
A pelvic ultrasound is generally performed prior to the venogram to exclude other potential problems with the ovaries or uterus. The diagnosis of pelvic venous insufficiency is then confirmed by a pelvic venography. If indicated, a minimally-invasive treatment called pelvic venous embolization can then be performed in order to relieve the abnormal pressure inside the pelvic veins. The venogram and embolization are performed on an outpatient basis and take about two hours.
The embolization procedure consists of inserting a thin, flexible, plastic catheter (or tube) into the jugular vein in the neck. Liquid contrast agent is then injected into the veins of the pelvis and special x-rays are obtained. These images allow the doctor to visualize the refluxing pelvic varicosities and seal them off using sclerosant and coils placed inside the abnormal veins. The catheter is then removed and a small dressing is then applied. After treatment, patients can often return to normal activity immediately. Non-coil embolization is also available.
